5 social networks that protect your privacy

Facebook made headlines today as it announced that it was changing its policy on requiring users to submit their real names in order to use the site, after lobby from civil liberties activists. CBR rounds up 5 social networking sites with a reputation for privacy.

1. Minds.com

minds.com is a privacy-driven social network. It is available as an app on both Android and iOS.

You can create your own social or Minds channel with newsfeeds, blogs, videos images, which then rewards how much you post with the ability to boost your posts.

Using open source software, the messenger service is encrypted so that your communications cannot be read by third parties.

2. Whisper

Available on both Android and iOS, this free app allows the user to write anonymous comments and texts that appear on stock photography. It reached 10 million active users in April 2015.

Uploads on the same topic are collected into longer list-like posts called Stories.

As it is used by a wide age range of posters, Whisper tackles the problem of online bullying by removing any posts with names.

3. WUT

Currently only available on iOS but with an Android version scheduled for the near future, the light-hearted "anonymish" app allows you to send messages to friends – but without them knowing which WUT user sent it.

The messages appear on the phone’s lock screen. Like with Snapchat, they then disappear shortly afterwards.

This is designed to encourage a spontaneous sharing of ideas as they occur.

4. Yik Yak

Yik Yak provides you with an anonymous feed of what’s going on in your location.

After downloading the app, available for both iOS and Android, Yik Yak uses your phone’s location to serve up a live feed from the surrounding area. You can anonymously post your own comments or tap into.

However, the app has attracted controversy after being used for cyber-bullying, and many schools both in the UK and elsewhere have banned it.

5. Duvamis

Duvamis is another social network which keeps users anonymous not only to each other but to the site operators. Users can share posts in the form of text and other media.

To join, all that is required is a working email address, meaning people have no obligation to submit real details.